Tryon Arts & Crafts School

"It's always a great place to visit."

"TACS is a year-round nonprofit school promoting heritage and contemporary art-making practices. The school offers education and public programs. It is well run and a welcoming environment regardless of skill level. The prices are affordable and a real bargain compared to similar schools. The former school facility offers a regional artist shop, multiple exhibition spaces, and advanced technological studios in fiber arts, glass, lapidary, ceramics, jewelry, and wood. Separate facilities on TACS’ campus house a welding and torchwork studio and a traditional blacksmithing forge. Open studio time is a benefit of membership. It is available to current students (or students enrolled within the past 12 weeks) who are members and have been certified by their instructor. Additional requirements and fees vary by studio. Kiln firing service is available to members and students. All Clay must be purchased through TACS. Glaze – Students may use their own glaze. Cone 6 only. The gift shop carries handcrafted items by regional artists, instructors and students. The annual yard sale is must see. Generally, its the last weekend in August. All proceeds benefit Tryon Arts & Crafts School, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization."

"A wonderful little hidden gem of a school adjacent to Harmon Field. Great class selection, lots of topics, variety in instruction and a wonderful and growing group of students. They have a gift shop as well, and host openings for themed rotating shows throughout the year. Amazing prices on classes compared to similar schools anywhere around. Some of what you can learn here: Silversmithing, pottery, wood carving, blacksmithing, fibers. They host kids camps/classes in the Summer too. Sign up early to get a spot in a class, as they fill with returning students pretty regularly."

"My husband is the woodworking instructor here. All the instructors are fantastic people who are passionate about teaching their craft. And there's so many crafts to choose from -- silk scarf painting to ceramic totem making to pottery and blacksmithing. For anyone looking to learn a new hobby, this is truly a one stop shop. Just a wonderful group of talented people."

"A real asset for the area. It was brilliant to turn this former school into a consolidated arts and crafts learning and exhibition center. Not only can you take a variety of classes, you can show them on frequent event weekends and sell them in the gift shop. Use their workrooms for your craft and you don't have to take up space in your home."